UPDATE: Turns out that this is probably a marketing gimmick by Danish energy drink maker Cult, that ended up here somewhat twisted and without a sender. See for instance mx.dk
At the beginning of this Easter holiday, a social fad started spreading here in the Faroes, that had next to everyone and his brother jump into the harbours. A cross between NekNomination and Tombstoning, as you can see in this compilation video off our national TV (see kvf.fo).
(the jumping starts at 0:32)
Residing on Facebook, it has everything that there is to ‘like’ about that thing. Chain mail format, pyramid scheme growth, peer pressure, questionable judgement, and the risk of online shaming for those who don’t play along.
The deal is that you get a ‘nomination’ on Facebook, to make a pier jump most often within 24 hours. If agreed, you are supposed to post a video on Facebook within that time limit, of you plunging into the sea, nominating two others. If you don’t do that, you are to usually buy a trip to the cinema to whoever nominated you.
Some jump twice, to be able to nominate more. Some decide to one-up the challenge by jumping from greater height, off ships or off cliffs. To be thrown off cars, or to bicycle off the pier. Some want a crate of beer or something else, instead of the cinema trip.
Almost everyone plays along, despite of our 6°C (42°F) waters. The teenagers of course, and the young adults. The older adults too. The priests and the politicians. Members of Parliament. Parents with their kids. Police and lifeguards. Teachers, seamen, singers and swim coaches.
So yeah, I could write on and on about this thing, but I guess I shouldn’t.
They love it.
I said no.
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